ONE TO WATCH

IMAN: COFFEE CATCH UP

When Iman arrived at the Pasticceria, she found Shortie already seated by the window on a plush black velvet banquette. They exchanged air kisses in the European style, laughing at their own formality. Iman admired Shortie's head-to-toe denim ensemble. Despite having seen each other on FaceTime that morning, she still exclaimed, "You look fabulous, dear."

Shortie beamed. "Ditto, my darling girl. I just love this look on you!"

At barely seventeen, Iman had 'curves in all the right places.' Though she had been self-conscious about her body at school, she was gaining confidence daily and was determined to find her own style. Today, she wore tailored pants and a cream silk blouse. She smiled, feeling validated by Shortie's genuine compliment. Her friend's reaction reinforced her belief that she could embrace her womanhood with style. The days of lounging in activewear were behind her.

Iman took a seat across from Shortie, placing her hand-embroidered peacock bag on the windowsill. She was pleased to find the café's décor as luxurious as advertised. If the food was even half as tasty, it would be worth the trip across town. She had organized this meetup to welcome Charlie and help the housemates get to know her. When Delyan and Bibiana declined, it hadn't bothered her. Secretly, she hoped the brunch would ease Shortie's anxiety about Charlie. Better the devil you know, after all.

Charlie arrived soon enough, her boho kaftan adding a splash of color. Thankfully, she wasn't late—Shortie couldn't stand unpunctuality. Nick, of course, was still missing, but he'd be forgiven.

Charlie greeted the girls with a breezy hello. Iman glanced at Shortie, hoping Charlie's easy charm would sway her friend's opinion of her. Iman enjoyed being around attractive people and secretly hoped Shortie would warm to Charlie so they could all spend more time together. It was part of her strategy, to surround herself with people who pushed her to try harder. She'd never been able to relaxing around someone she envied and relaxation was the thief of time.

A waitress arrived with table water and menus. Shortie poured water into four glasses and handed them around.

"Delyan called," she said. "He wants us all for a house meeting at seven."

"Tonight?" Iman sighed deeply. "We've already settled the roster. Charlie's got Carmen's chores." She turned to Charlie.

"Right?"

Charlie nodded, raising her glass to her lips while scanning her phone. She seemed distracted.

"Did you see the second bathroom this morning?" Shortie asked. "Someone needs to teach that boy to use a mop!"

Iman knew it had been Delyan's day. "I didn't see him all day yesterday," she said. "Where is he?"

"In Paris. At least today he is."

Charlie continued scrolling on her phone in silence. Iman resisted the urge to ask if she was alright. Fortunately, Shortie didn't seem to notice Charlie's lack of participation. "Apparently, Bibiana called him this morning and asked for his help," Shortie said.

"Help? From Delyan?" Iman chuckled. "Read the room, girl!"

"Right? Of all people." Shortie rolled her eyes. "Listen. Anyway, he said he's got an idea he wants to run by us tonight."

"Better tell Nick. He's got a date." The hovering waitress stepped closer to the table. Iman shook her head and she stepped away.

"Interesting timing. He's here." Shortie's gaze had moved toward the door.

Twisting in her chair, Iman saw Nick approaching from behind. He'd had a haircut.

"Tell Nick what?" he asked, briefly touching Iman's shoulder, and throwing air kisses in all directions.